As we get older, there’s no surprise that our\u00a0memory isn’t as sharp as it used to be…but that doesn’t mean we’re doomed to forget everything! There are a number of tips and tricks you can use to remember small details in the moment and improve your memory in the long run.<\/p>\n
Whether you’re studying for a test or just want to learn someone’s name, here are five ways to help you remember things better.<\/p>\n
Exercise Your Brain<\/strong> Visualize It<\/strong> Make Associations<\/strong> Write It Down<\/strong>
\nDoing activities that use your brain can help preserve and strengthen your memory<\/a>.\u00a0This includes playing brain games, doing puzzles like Sudoku or crosswords, or even playing video games. These types of hobbies help to build new connections in your brain.<\/p>\n
\nMemory is predominantly visual, so picturing as much you can with an image can help strengthen your memory. One technique you can use is the method of loci<\/a>. Think of a place you know well, like your house. Visualize a series of locations in a logical order, such as walking through your front door, through the living room, and into the kitchen. Place each item you need\u00a0to remember in\u00a0these locations. When you need to recall the said items, walk yourself through your house, picturing each item\u00a0in its place.<\/p>\n
\nIf there’s something common or mundane you have to remember, like a name or a phone number,\u00a0associate it with something that has more meaning to you<\/a>.\u00a0When someone introduces themselves to you as Joe, make note that their curly hair reminds you of a sloppy joe. If you have a long number to learn, break it up and look for familiar or important dates like birthdays or anniversaries.<\/p>\n
\nWriting important information down will not only give you something to reference later, but writing by hand can help you retain and understand concepts<\/a>.\u00a0Using a pen and paper can strengthen the process by which important things are stored in our memory.<\/p>\n